How to Make the Most of your Summer Holidays Between GCSEs and A Levels
Congratulations! You’ve completed your GCSEs and now you’ve got this precious period of time to rest and prepare for the next stage of your academic life. Whether you’re looking to relax, get ahead academically, or gain new experiences, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to make the most of this summer.
Here are some tips on how to spend your summer:
1. Rest and recharge
Although results day will inevitably be looming over your head, there’s really nothing you can do about your performance until the results arrive. Make the most of recharging after the intense period of studying and exams. This doesn’t necessarily mean just lounging around the whole time (although that may feel good temporarily), but allowing yourself to dive back into your hobbies, which may be been neglected earlier in the school year.
Taking a break will finally give you the chance to watch your favourite TV shows, read the books on your never ending TBR list or simply relax with your family, friends, and pets. Although the weather in the UK can be questionable in the summer, there are plenty of opportunities to go for walks, hikes, and bike rides; being out in nature also does wonders for your mental health, helping to clear your mind and recharge your energy.
2. Gain work experience
It’s never too early to prepare for your future, but you don’t have to have it all figured out just yet. Most work experience opportunities start at post-16 and can help you choose a potential career path (or even what to avoid!). Work experience doesn’t need to be anything formal. This could be volunteering at local charities or community projects, such as at a library or coffee shop. It will help you make connections and learn some new skills you can develop upon for future University and job applications. Sometimes, this can lead to paid part-time or even full-time work later down the line, plus it’s never too early to grow your network.
3. Prepare for your A-levels
Although absolutely not essential, a bit of academic preparation can ease the transition into A-levels.
If you’re set on certain A-level subjects, you can explore what is covered in the courses (all the exam board syllabuses can be found for free online) and see what peaks your interest. Forget all about how to score marks and get the top grades: you’ve been doing plenty of that already!
Make sure you have the right textbooks at hand or take some online courses to learn some new content. You could try one of our Scholearn Summer Sessions, or explore Khan Academy and Skill Share who offer courses on a wide range of subjects, even on important soft skills, such as effective note-taking or time management.
There is also so much free content on YouTube from creators who provide valuable insights into what they wish they knew before they started their A-levels. For example, studytubers such as Smile With Sola, UnJaded Jade and Udoka Fintelmann share their personal experience about what worked for them, which could inspire you too.
4. Pursue your personal projects
Have you been wanting to learn how to code, crochet, start a YouTube channel, or journal?
After studying your GCSEs, where you’re prescribed a set syllabus with many set subjects, it is important to have something alongside your studies that is purely your own and you’re doing for the sheer fun of it. Having some longer, uninterrupted time this summer can help you get a personal project (or projects) off the ground. Although you may dial back once you start your A-levels, getting started on your dreams is the hardest part and this time can allow you to gain some momentum.
Engaging in personal projects not only provides a sense of accomplishment but is also a source of creativity with no prescribed deadlines or pressure. This can help you relax and de-stress, offering a break from the academic pressure you may experience at school or college. For instance, learning to code can help your problem-solving skills or learning to crochet can help you explore your creativity and passion for beautiful handmade clothes; starting a YouTube channel can help you develop communication and video editing skills, and journalling can enhance your writing and serve as a reflective practice. This is a non-exhaustive list, but starting one of these or a different hobby with a friend or family member may help you stay accountable and make it a fun, social project too.
5. Don’t compare yourself to others
Everyone’s summer is going to look totally different. One friend may be travelling all the time, another secured their dream work experience, and another has already started making flashcards. Everyone’s path is different, with different energy levels, interests, home lives, and career paths. Some vocations may require starting work experience earlier, whilst you may not even know what you want to do, and that’s perfectly okay.
Don’t let other people’s lives on social media this summer stop you from living and enjoying our own. There’s no ‘right’ way to spend this time off, and it’s really what you make it. The important thing is to find balance and focus on enjoying a summer that works best for you.
The summer between GCSEs and A-Levels is a time of transition and opportunity. Balancing relaxation with other projects can set you up for success in your upcoming A-Level studies and beyond. Use this time to explore new interests, gain valuable experiences, and prepare for the future, all whilst enjoying a well-deserved break.
What are you focusing on this summer? Let us know in the comments!